Birthstones have long been cherished as personal tokens—symbolic gems believed to bring luck, protection, and positive energy to those born in a particular month. These colourful stones carry centuries of meaning and continue to inspire modern jewellery design.

December stands out as one of the few months with multiple recognised birthstones. If you’ve ever wondered what are December’s birthstones, or why there are two, you're in the right place. Let’s explore these captivating gems and their timeless appeal.

When people ask “what is the birthstone for December UK?”, the most common answers you’ll hear are turquoise and blue topaz. Both gems share refreshing shades of blue but offer entirely different looks, histories, and symbolism.

Exploring the Meaning of December Birthstones

A frequent question shoppers ask is “what is the birthstone December meaning?” While meanings vary across cultures, both stones are united by themes of clarity, protection, and wisdom.

Turquoise Meaning

Turquoise has long been seen as a stone of:

• Good fortune
  
• Friendship and loyalty
  
• Protection from harm
  
• Emotional balance
  

Myths from Persia to Indigenous North America describe turquoise as a heavenly stone, formed from the tears of joy that fell from the sky.

Blue Topaz Meaning

Blue topaz embodies:

• Calm energy
  
• Creativity and communication
  
• Clarity of thought
  
• Inner peace
  

Legends claim topaz could break curses or dispel anger, making it a symbol of harmony and wisdom.

Together, these gems beautifully represent emotional serenity and positive transformation—perfect themes for December, a month of reflection.

Why Are There Two Birthstones for December?

If you’ve asked “Why are there two birthstones for December?” the answer lies in tradition and modern practicality.

Historically, birthstones were based on ancient religious texts and symbolic stones worn by high priests. However, these ancient gem lists did not always correspond with stones available in different regions.

As time passed, the National Association of Jewellers (US) and other global gem organisations created a more standardised list. Some months, including December, received additional modern stones to:

• Improve affordability
  
• Increase availability
  
• Offer more colour variety
  
• Allow contemporary options alongside historical gems
  

Thus, turquoise remains the traditional December birthstone, while blue topaz has become the modern alternative.

What Is the Birthstone for December in the UK?

While birthstone traditions can differ worldwide, in the UK the most widely accepted answer to “what is the birthstone for December UK?” is turquoise.

However, British jewellers—including Gemondo—also embrace blue topaz as a popular, modern December birthstone. Many customers choose based on personal style rather than strict tradition, meaning both stones are equally celebrated in the UK jewellery market today.

Cost Analysis: Which December Birthstone Is the Most Expensive?

A key question for buyers is “Which December birthstone is the most expensive?” The answer depends on quality, rarity, and size, but in most cases: Blue topaz is generally more affordable, because it is more abundant and often heat-treated to achieve its vivid colour.

High-quality turquoise (especially natural, untreated stones) can be more expensive, particularly specimens from renowned mines such as Sleeping Beauty in Arizona or Nishapur in Iran.

What influences the price?

Colour:

• Turquoise: even, vivid blue without matrix is most valuable
• Blue topaz: London Blue typically commands higher prices

Clarity:

• Blue topaz is prized for transparency
• Turquoise is valued for unique matrix patterns

Treatment:

• Untreated turquoise is rare and therefore more costly

Origin:

• Famous mines dramatically increase value

Market Demand:

• Trends in fashion and jewellery design affect price
  

Overall, for everyday jewellery shoppers, blue topaz tends to be budget-friendly, whereas collectors may pay premium prices for exceptional turquoise pieces.